Firstly, I'm sure I speak for the majority on the forum in thanking you for the update...........
Apart from the flat tyre, have you been able to ascertain how much (if any) damage to the car?
The loss of the compendium and books etc does effect the value but by no means does is make it worthless.
An automotive locksmith should be able to remove the ignition barrel and cut a key to suit so I'm sure that's not a deal breaker.
Everything happens for a reason but it make take some time for the puzzle to make sense.
If I were you I'd just wait, but keep in contact with Shannons and follow whatever path the car takes from here.
I'm thinking they may clean her up and put it into their Melbourne auction where it would get a lot more exposure.
As I said from the start, thanks for the update.
Bob.